Meet the Founder
Joanna, Holistic Silk founder shares her journey.
Having graduated from Chelsea School of Art, I started my career as a freelance textile designer and trend identifier before securing a buying position with an innovative Shiatsu massage and wellbeing brand in the mid-90s. This role inspired me to identify growing trends within the wellness space and research what really is effective in making a fast-paced lifestyle more positive.
My curiosity led to me marrying my textile skills and knowledge with holistic products. I started exploring designs and developing products at home, based on the classic adage ‘I couldn’t find what I was looking for so created it myself’. From my flat share in North West London, Holistic Silk came into being in 1999. The firstborn product is still a hero in my range - the Lavender Eye Pillow. Whilst many others have followed, I must admit to cherishing this one the most.
It wasn't easy at first! As the wellness industry grew globally, Holistic Silk grew locally and internationally; being stocked at leading luxury fashion and beauty stores such as Harrods, Selfridges & Harvey Nichols in London, Niche in Germany and Le Bon Marche in Paris to name a few. As an established brand within the Spa & Wellbeing community, Holistic Silk products are also available in prestigious spa and hotel groups such as The Mandarin Oriental and Four Seasons.
In 2015, with a desire to leave the city and create a further balanced, abundant lifestyle, my family and I relocated to the creatively vibrant and beautiful harbour village of Boscastle in North Cornwall. It is from here that I, with my small but perfectly formed team, run my independent business with real passion and commitment.
I’m dedicated to a creative lifestyle whilst being immersed in the Holistic Silk mantra ‘Relax, Restore, Rejuvenate’. I swim every morning and love to unwind on long walks. I like to relax and enjoy simple pleasures such as music, food and quality time with friends and family. I naturally don’t stop being inspired or captivated by colour, sound and form no matter where I am and I must admit that I drive those around me to distraction at times with my incessant questions and reasoning.
So what’s next? When I created Holistic Silk I used many of my own designs within my pieces. But in-between growing the brand...and raising my children...it has become ever harder to find the time to dedicate to this. But 23 is my lucky number and with Holistic Silk turning twenty three in 2023 it had to be a sign that now was the time to go back to the brand's roots. So I have been busy in my studio sketching, painting and drawing new designs to use within my pieces once again or sitting at the sewing machine creating a new style of fabric packaging; re-usable of course. So watch this space for some truly, back to my roots, designs and changes in 2024.
It's so inspiring to know that my creations are appreciated and enhance people's lives, this is what I set out to do. Everybody needs joy and to talk about it more! If you ever have any feedback, thoughts, or questions I’m always here.
